Umroi, May 30: The maiden edition of the multilateral military exercise PRAGATI 2026 concluded successfully at Umroi Military Station in Meghalaya with a 72-hour validation exercise that showcased enhanced interoperability, mutual trust and collective readiness among participating nations.
The exercise, officially known as Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region (PRAGATI), brought together more than 400 military personnel from 13 countries — India, Bhutan, Cambodia, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia and Laos.
The closing event was attended by six Vice Chiefs and over 40 senior military officials from participating countries. The dignitaries were hosted by Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, Vice Chief of the Army Staff.
Focused on counter-terrorism operations in semi-mountainous and jungle terrain, the exercise provided a platform for participating armies to exchange experiences, share best practices and strengthen military-to-military cooperation. Troops underwent extensive training through lectures, demonstrations and practical exercises before participating in the final 72-hour validation exercise.
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Training activities included rock craft, ambush and counter-ambush drills, slithering, jungle lane shooting, room and bus intervention operations, improvised explosive device (IED) detection, casualty evacuation and other specialised military skills. Mixed teams comprising personnel from different nations trained together, fostering interoperability, capacity building and professional cooperation.
A major highlight of the exercise was the camaraderie developed among soldiers from participating countries, who trained and operated together under demanding conditions. The exercise also facilitated cultural exchanges and informal interactions, helping strengthen both professional and personal ties.
As part of the programme, the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), organised a defence equipment exhibition showcasing indigenous defence technologies and advanced military equipment. The display highlighted India’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and promoted opportunities for defence collaboration and exports.
On the sidelines of the exercise, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth held bilateral meetings with representatives of participating countries to further strengthen defence cooperation and military relations.
Officials stated that Exercise PRAGATI 2026 has significantly contributed to enhancing regional cooperation, operational readiness and mutual trust among participating nations. The successful completion of the inaugural edition is expected to serve as a strong foundation for future editions of the exercise and reinforce collective efforts towards a peaceful, secure and prosperous Indian Ocean region.
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